Fall 17 Semester Start-Up Information

Complete these steps to make sure you are ready for the semester.

1. Check to make sure you have no holds preventing your registration. You must be registered to be officially recognized as a student at Cornell University.

  • Beginning August 15, 2017 log in to Student Essentials and check to make sure you're registered (NetID required).
  • To become a registered student at Cornell University, a person must:
    • Settle all financial accounts, including current semester tuition.
    • Satisfy New York State and University health requirements.
    • Have no holds from their college, Cornell Health, or the Bursar.
  • Students must be registered for the Fall semester by September 8, 2017 or they risk being withdrawn from the University. Students who become registered after September 8, 2017 will be charged a $350 late fee. Students who fail to become registered will be withdrawn from the University on September 25, 2017. See University Registration for more information.
  • If you require a Certification of Enrollment (or Degree) for a loan organization, health insurance provider, or other agency, order it online after August 18, 2017.

2. Check your add/drop appointment time in Student Center.

  • Beginning August 15, 2017 log in to Student Center and review the information in the Enrollment Dates box.
  • Your enrollment appointment should reflect the course add/drop date associated with your academic level (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, etc.).
  • If your enrollment appointment does not correspond with your academic level, please contact your college registrar's office.
  • All full-semester courses must be added by the 15th calendar day of the semester (September 5, 2017).
  • The last day to drop most courses is October 17, 2017. Earlier drop deadlines may apply for PE and other courses.

3. Verify and update your personal data via Student Essentials.

  • Verify and update your home and local addresses, phone numbers, emergency contact, and emergency mass notification information.

4. Review the Student Record Privacy Statement: Annual Notification under FERPA.

  • Read the Student Record Privacy Statement. This statement outlines certain rights afforded to you as a student with respect to your education record and defines the information ("directory information") that may be released without your consent.
  • Directory information may be released unless the student indicates otherwise in his/her privacy settings in Student Center. Students may rescind their no-release request at any time through the Student Center. Learn more about your FERPA rights.

5. Review key dates and times.

Key Websites